Rodri must wait for his debut as Cancelo receives immediate clearance

Barcelona have registered their new signings, so for once the problem is not hidden somewhere inside LaLiga’s system. Rodri is officially listed and has even received his squad number, but he will not face Elche. Hansi Flick has confirmed that the midfielder is not yet ready to make his debut.

The Spaniard completed an individual programme on the pitch and in the gym on Saturday. The plan is for him to join full team training on Monday. Only then will the coaching staff assess when he can be included in a matchday squad.

“Our plan is for him to train at the team’s pace on Monday. He is a leader,” Flick said during his pre-match press conference.

It is the first specific timetable provided for Rodri since his transfer from Manchester City. His registration was completed in time, but Flick will not rush his debut before the player is properly prepared. After several days spent watching documents move through LaLiga’s system, Barcelona have encountered the final stage of the process: the footballer also needs to be ready to play.

João Cancelo’s situation is entirely different. The Portuguese full-back has trained with the group, been registered and received clearance from the coach to feature on Sunday.

“Yes, he can play tomorrow. He is ready,” Flick confirmed. The German also praised Cancelo’s technique, passion and attacking contribution, recalling the influence he had on Barcelona during the previous season.

That does not guarantee him a place in the starting line-up. Flick confirmed that Cancelo is available but did not reveal whether he intends to use him from the opening whistle. His ability to operate on either side of the defence also increases the competition facing Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde.

The difference between Barcelona’s two latest arrivals has been clear during their first sessions. Rodri has followed an individual programme, while Cancelo immediately joined the full group. The Portuguese defender already knows Flick’s demands and most of the squad, meaning his return requires little introduction.

Barcelona begin their league campaign against Elche on Sunday, 23 August, at 9:30pm CEST. The match will be played at the Estadio Martínez Valero. Rodri will stay behind, while Cancelo could make his third debut for the same club. At Barcelona, even comebacks are now released in separate seasons.